CONNECTIONS NEWSLETTER ARCHIVE
By Cary Hamilton LMHC-S, RPT-S, NCC, CMHS, CDWF
October 30
Teen Anxiety is REAL!
Everyone feels anxious sometimes. Events like a big test, giving a presentation in front of the class, or a big game (among other things) can all create temporary feelings of anxiety. This kind of anxiety is completely normal, and even useful sometimes! Simply stated, anxiety is our brain’s response to a real or perceived threat, and is part of our body’s attempt to keep us safe.
Read more about teen anxiety here.
Clinic Update COVID19
Opening & closing the Clinic is what we are avoiding. We will remain on Telehealth till January.
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community.
However, at Olympia Therapy, there is an option that may allow you to be seen sooner!
***** If you are already required to pay a co-pay of $30-$40 per session, you can opt-out of going through insurance and simply choose to Self-Pay at $50 per session with one of our
Liscenced Clinical Associates.
Particularly for children ages 5-17, this option could significantly decrease your wait time!
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
~Get to Know Our Licensed Clinical Associates!~
Reminders for Telehealth Play Therapy Success!
It is REALLY important that we try and uphold the rights of our children when in therapy. Just as you would have expectations for confidentiality, so do children.
Therapy only works if you/they
FEEL SAFE!
It is normal and expected that children will only talk about struggles when parents aren't present, they don't want to hurt your feelings or you to pass judgment on them. So we created this handout to remind you of the guidelines for successful telehealth for adults & children.
Helpful Reads & Links
Self care is not selfish. Learn about the importance of self-care as a parent of a young child during Covid-19 here.
We can't expect normal from our children or teachers right now. Life is not normal.
Pandemic depression and seasonal depression are soon to collide. Having a plan is important.
Has your teenager's mood changed? Read here about signs of depression in your teen and how you as a parent can help.
Playful Wisdom Parenting
Stay tuned for our
Playful Wisdom Foundations Course
that will be launching this Fall.
If you would like to be placed on the waiting list for this new course,
please click here.
If there are topics that you are intersted in learning about. Send us a note. Get 10% off if we choose your topic!
October 21
October is ADHD & SPD Awareness Month
When they all look alike: ADHD, Anxiety, & SPD.
As the parent of a complicated child, you strive to understand the different labels your child is given and how professionals know the difference between those labels. It is a challenging task particularly when many professionals struggle to understand themselves, passing the confusion on to parents.
You can hear from one professional, "oh it’s definitely ADHD, let's medicate," another says "he is just anxious, go to therapy," and yet another says "I'm not sure what we are looking at." It is beyond frustrating!
As a professional and a parent, I can relate. With this article, I’m hoping to provide some information that will help us to focus on the right path. READ ON!
Clinic Update COVID19
Opening & closing the Clinic is what we are avoiding. We will remain on Telehealth till January.
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community.
However, at Olympia Therapy, there is an option that may allow you to be seen sooner!
***** If you are already required to pay a co-pay of $30-$40 per session, you can opt-out of going through insurance and simply choose to Self-Pay at $50 per session with one of our
Liscenced Clinical Associates.
Particularly for children ages 5-17, this option could significantly decrease your wait time!
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
~Know our Licensed Clinical Associates!~
October 14
October is ADHD Awareness Month
Could it be ADHD?
Let’s start with some quick facts about ADHD:
ADHD stands for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, as defined by the American Psychological Association
ADHD can be diagnosed in children 6+ and adults
There are 3 types of ADHD
ADHD symptoms need to be present in more than one area of life
ADHD is often an underlying factor for anxiety, depression, oppositional behavior, and relationship challenges
ADHD is life-long. Symptoms can be managed, however, there is no “treatment” for ADHD.
Clinic Update COVID19
Opening & closing the Clinic is what we are avoiding. We will remain on Telehealth till January.
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community.
However, at Olympia Therapy, there is an option that may allow you to be seen sooner!
***** If you are already required to pay a co-pay of $30-$40 per session, you can opt-out of going through insurance and simply choose to Self-Pay at $50 per session with one of our
Liscenced Clinical Associates.
Particularly for children ages 5-17, this option could significantly decrease your wait time!
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
~Know our Licensed Clinical Associates!~
Helpful Reads & Links
Is Covid-19 getting to you? Here's how to have a meltdown as an adult, the right way.
If your family well-being is declining, your child's bevahior is likely to follow suit. Read more here.
Play can help heal feelings of shame in children.
Playful Wisdom Parenting
Stay tuned for our
Playful Wisdom Foundations Course
that will be launching this Fall.
If you would like to be placed on the waiting list for this new course,
please click here.
If there are topics that you are intersted in learning about. Send us a note. Get 10% off if we choose your topic!
October 9
October is Sensory Processing Awareness Month
The Functional Four: Sensory Secrets and the Senses You Didn't Know You Had.
Our sensory systems are complicated and no one's the same! We have a total of 8 senses (not 5) that work together to support their integration and to ensure our survival in this world. Some have more protective factors while others enhance each other. Our goal is to help you know each sense in more depth so that you may see behaviors as a result of sensory dysfunctions and “neuron traffic jams” versus conscious choices of children. Check out this week's blog where we break down the Functional FOUR here.
Clinic During COVID19
Opening & closing the Clinic is what we are avoiding. For now, we will remain on Telehealth.
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community.
However, at Olympia Therapy, there is an option that may allow you to be seen sooner!
***** If you are already required to pay a co-pay of $30-$40 per session, you can opt out of going through insurance and simply choose to Self-Pay at $50 per session with one of our Licenced Clinical Associates. Particularly for children ages 5-17, this option could significantly decrease your wait time!
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
~Meet our Licensed Clinical Associates!~
Ruymán (Rudy) Hernández, MA, LMHCA
Ruymán Hernández is an energetic, engaging therapist who focuses on teens and families. Bicultural and bilingual, he uses elements of play therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in his practice.
Suzanne (Suzie) Black, MA, LMHCA
Suzie is a compassionate therapist who's passion is for the next generation. She has had the privilege of working with school-aged children for the last six years. Suzie views therapy as a vital component of our daily healing processes. She greatly enjoys working alongside children in their journey. Suzie appreciates the uniqueness in every individual and tailors her therapy to each need. She does this by utilizing elements of Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therpy, Solution Focused Therapy, and Psychoeducation, in order to best help children and parents gain empowerment and healing.
Amber Parker, MA.MFT, LMFTA
Amber is a creative, expressive, and inspired therapist who believes it is an honor and privilege to support adults and children in their healing process. She has been working in trauma-focused professions for over 15 years; she believes it is her life's work to guide others on the path to self understanding, self acceptance, and self love. Amber incorports a wide array of concepts and methods into her therapeutic work, including drama therapy, internal family systems, play therapy, somatic therapy, and jungian psychology.
Lisa Brawn, MA.MFT, LMFT
Sometimes we just need someone to talk to; sometimes we need specialized care. Lisa offers unique services that combine standard treatment options with creative interventions - Play Therapy, AUTPlay, and SandTray, etc. Treatment is always tailored to your individual and personal needs.
Lisa works with children aged 3+, teens, adults, & couples/families. Commonly sought services include: mood disorders, trauma, ADHD, domestic violence, communication, self-harm behaviors, divorce, family issues, aging, life transitions, parenting, and reunification.
LGBTQ+, Geek, & Freak Friendly.
(Lisa is in the in-between, she will be able to accept insurance by the new year.)
Playful Wisdom Parenting
Stay tuned for our
Playful Wisdom Foundations Course
that will be launching this Fall.
If you would like to be placed on the waiting list for this new course,
please click here.
If there are topics that you are intersted in learning about. Send us a note. Get 10% off if we choose your topic!
Helpful Reads & Links
Learn how you as a parent help to shape your child's mental health here.
Shareable resources on Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Four questions to help gauge your child's mental health during Covid-19
October is Sensory Processing Disorder Awareness Month. Check out this article to learn more!
The Foundational Four senses article here!
September 30
Clinic During COVID19
Opening & closing the Clinic is what we are avoiding. For now, we will remain on Telehealth.
With the new school schedule, please speak to your provider about scheduling NOW.
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community.
However, at Olympia Therapy, there is an option that may allow you to be seen sooner!
If you are already required to pay a co-pay of $30-$40 per session, you can opt out of going through insurance and simply choose to Self-Pay at $50 per session with one of our Licenced Clinical Associates. Particularly for children ages 5-17, this option could significantly decrease your wait time!
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
~Book Recommendations!~
I Just Don't Like the Sound of NO!
(How About Maybe?)
This book is about a boy named RJ who just doesn't like being told no. Between his mom, his teacher, and his friends, he does not seem to be getting his way. This is a great book that walks through accepting no as an answer and how to disagree the right way.
Lying Up a Storm
Whether it's "itty bitty" or a "great, big whooper", a lie is a lie and these lies add up. In this book, Levi learns how one lie can lead to more, causing a storm inside of us. If your child is struggling to tell the truth this book is a great tool for teaching them about the consequences of lying and the benefit of telling the truth.
Baditude:
What to Do When Your Life STINKS!
This book is about a boy called Noodle who is having a bad attitude. This book talks about how a bad attitude can get in the way from us having a good day. But, if we can change our baditude into gratitude and our "have tos" into "get tos" then we can turn our day around.
The Worst Day of My Life EVER!
RJ is having one of the worst days EVER. Nothing seems to be going right, but could there be a reason why? This book talks about the importance of listening and following instructions and gives children step-by-step instructions of how to properly do so. RJ learns that when he listens and follows instructions the outcome of his day is much more positive.
Playful Wisdom Parenting
Stay tuned for our
Playful Wisdom Foundations Course
that will be launching this Fall.
If you would like to be placed on the waiting list for this new course,
please click here.
If there are topics that you are intersted in learning about. Send us a note. Get 10% off if we choose your topic!
Helpful Reads & Links
What your children know about empathy is up to you.
Toxic Masculinity: What does it mean and how could it be affecting you or your child.
Here is some great information about Telehealth and how to make the best of you/your child's experience!
How to identify a decline in your child's mental health and what you as a parent can do.
September 24
It’s Time to Separate Your Siblings!
We’re all at that point. . . mid-pandemic, in a world of social injustice and unrest. The weather is changing, distance learning has started, and the entire west-coast is either on fire or smoke-filled. Our nervous systems have been in a state of increasing dysregulation for over six months now and to top it off, our kids have been cooped up all summer long. If you are parenting siblings, a few months ago you were grateful that they had each other to play with. Yet, now they are anxious, fighting, and arguing over everything.
So how do we create space for siblings?
~Check out this week's blog on Separating Your Siblings!~
Clinic During COVID19
Opening & closing the Clinic is what we are avoiding. For now, we will remain on Telehealth.
With the new school schedule, please speak to your provider about scheduling NOW.
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community. We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
Playful Wisdom Parenting
Stay tuned for our
Playful Wisdom Foundations Course
that will be launching this Fall.
If you would like to be placed on the waiting list for this new course,
please click here.
If there are topics that you are intersted in learning about. Send us a note. Get 10% off if we choose your topic!
~Book Recommendations!~
When You Are Brave
This book is about the bravery that can be found inside each of us. We all experience circumstances that push us to our limits. This book encourages us to find that light of courage inside of us no matter what we face, because the more that we use it, the easier it is to use again.
"Some days, when everything around you seems scary, you have to be brave."
I Am Love:
A Book of Compassion
This is a book all about the transformative power of love. The book demonstrates the many different ways one can show and be love. Whether it's through compassion, gentleness, comfort, self-care, understanding, etc. This is a great read for children, showing that with the power of love, we can weather any storm.
Helpful Reads & Links
Social isolation and the power of play for children. How can you as parents help?
How play can help reduce stress in children.
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. Click here to learn what researchers deem as better ways to prevent suicide.
September 17
It’s Time for SIX!
"Six is in between two worlds. While Six still has curiosity and wonder, they are quickly approaching a more concrete world. Six may seem oppositional and stubborn, and may frequently change their mind. One minute they want to do something themself and the next they are asking you to complete tasks that they have known how to do for a while, like tie their shoe. This is a normal part of Six’s increased sense of independence."
Read more of this weeks blog about Six here!
Clinic During COVID19
We will be remaining online for the foreseeable future per our County Dept. of Health's recommendation.
Remember engagement in Telehealth services is for your Mental Health. With the new school schedule, please speak to your provider about scheduling NOW.
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community. We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
~Book Recommendation!~
Miracle Melts Down
In this book, things aren't going the way Miracle planned and she is having a meltdown! The Kindergators in her classroom work hard to give Miracle ideas on ways to calm down. With humor and practical tips, this book is a great read for children who are having a hard time knowing how to use positive coping strategies when things don't go as planned.
"Guess what happened at school today!"
Hands Off, Harry!
Hands Off Harry, another book in the Kindergators series, is about a classmate named Harry who is struggling to keep his hands to himself. Harry keeps invading his classmates' personal space, causing messes and chaos all over the classroom. With the help of his teacher and classmates, Harry learns how to give others the space they need and how to use his hands to help instead of hurt.
"I want to show everybody that my space ends here."
Playful Wisdom Parenting
Stay tuned for our
Playful Wisdom Foundations Course
that will be launching this Fall.
If you would like to be placed on the waiting list for this new course,
please click here.
If there are topics that you are interested in learning about. Send us a note. Get 10% off if we choose your topic!
Helpful Reads & Links
How is COVID-19 affecting our brains?
A parent's guide to helping a child in distress
September 14th was National Coloring Day! Enjoy these coloring activities for you and your child.
Mandala coloring pages are wonderful relaxation tools for both children and adults!
Is your toddler full of energy? Here are 15 fun activities for them to do at home!
Check out Brené Brown's Wholehearted Inventory that assesses your strengths and areas for growth.
September 11
September is Suicide Prevention Month
Thoughts of suicide affect individuals all over the world regardless of one's age (even children), gender, race, etc. Thousands of people die each year due to suicidal actions, leaving behind family and friends who will be left to grieve their loss. This may be a sensitive topic for many, but it is a topic that is important to bring awareness to. Here at Olympia Therapy, we want you to know that we care and we are here for you on your journey.
-Cary
Clinic During COVID19
We will be remaining online for the foreseeable future per our County Dept. of Health's recommendation.
Remember engagement in Telehealth services is for your Mental Health. With the new school schedule, please speak to your provider about scheduling NOW.
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community. We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
~Book Recommendation!~
I Am Enough
This is a book all about an African American girl who is learning to love herself for who she is and the importance of showing kindness towards others. The book is written in a rhythmic poem style and utilizes fun similes, making it a fun read for children. With a focus on diversity, self-confidence and the power of loving others, this is a great book especially for girls ages 4+.
You are unique and wonderful just the way you are!
Summer of Connection
Playful Wisdom is complete.
We had a great time providing video shorts to add to your parenting toolbox over the summer. We look forward to having you join us next year.
Stay tuned for our
Playful Wisdom Foundations Course
that will be launching this Fall. If you would like to be placed on the waiting list for this new course, please click here.
Helpful Reads & Links
School's out, but is the education really suffering as much as we think?
A video from Brené Brown about the 10th anniversary edition of "The Gifts of Imperfection"
How to Support Teenagers and Young Adults during COVID-19
How do I help my child understand the news of racism and violence?
September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month!
A video for teachers about suicide prevention
August 31
The Olympia Therapy Family
is grieving the loss of a beautiful child of one of our team members.
Thank you for giving us some grace & patience the next couple of weeks as we support our family during this time.
We are still open & practicing, however some rescheduling of appointments may occur as we find ways to support our
team members.
-Cary
Clinic During COVID19
We will be remaining online for the foreseeable future per our County Dept. of Health's recommendation.
Remember engagement in Telehealth services is for your Mental Health. With the new school schedule, please speak to your provider about scheduling NOW.
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community. We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
Miss The Parenting Back to School Webinar? Link here!
~Book Recommendation!~
My Mixed Emotions:
Help your kids handle their feelings.
This book is one of our favorites! It is all about helping kids identify and manage their big feelings! This book is science-based, teaching children about the parts of their brains, the hormones that contribute to our feelings, the responses our bodies have to big emotions, and what we DO about them! With activities, thoughtful questions, and bright graphics, this is a must-read for any child ages 6+ & even some adults!
Never stop learning-
Always be CURIOUS!
Playful Wisdom Blog: Normal is NOT here yet.
Helpful Reads & Links
Why am I so EXHAUSTED!
Kids missing grandparents? This is a form of grief.
Recent article of Playful Wisdom on Thurston Talk
Dr. Bruce Perry on Educators & Regulation short lecture series.
Brenè Brown on Pressing on with Purpose, her latest post!
August 26
COVID19 RESPONSE FOR FALL
With school districts making the decision to remain online for the fall, we too will be remaining online for the foreseeable future per our County Dept. of Health's recommendation.
Remember engagement in Telehealth services is for your Mental Health. With the new school schedules if you feel this will impact your appointments please speak to your provider about scheduling NOW.
What you resist, PERSISTS!
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community. We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
Awesome Books for being Predictably Flexible!
Don't Be Afraid to Drop!
This is a story about a little raindrop who is afraid of the unknown! They don't know where they will end up when they leave the comforts of their home, and they are willing to take the chance to find out! This is a great book for children facing transitions or a big change.
I'm Stretched!
This story is about being stretched too thin, between school and homework and sports and extra cirricular activites. The pressure to stay on top of everything and still have time for family and friends, is overwhelming! This book has great tips to help children and families take care of themselves and de-stress together.
Bubblegum Brain
This book is about Growth Mindset, which is the understadning that our brains are capable of change. When we put in effort to practice something, we are changing our brains! Bubblegum Brain shows us how to do this, and how to encourage our Brick Brain friends to do this as well.
Technology Tail
This book is about Technology & Safety. Phones, tablets, and computers are fun AND we need to use them safely, especially when it comes to the internet. The technology tail explores all the ways you can bruise or scrape your "tail" by posting rude or innapropriate content online. It also helps children navigate online safety, respect, and kindness in this digital world.
Miss The Parenting Back to School Webinar? Link here!
Playful Wisdom Blog: Normal is NOT here yet.
Helpful Reads & Links
Ways for teachers to support students mental health.
Recent article of Playful Wisdom on Thurston Talk
Dr. Bruce Perry on Educators & Regulation short lecture series.
Brenè Brown on Grief & Finding Meaning
August 20
Normal is NOT here yet.
We are still living within a global pandemic.
This fall, as we face online and/or distant learning, families are panicking. This stress in unavoidable. We can't make it go away or believe it's not there. We can't change our biological response to stress, we can only strive to decrease its impact. Some families feel that because they are able to keep working, pay the bills, and have a roof over their heads, that they are not experiencing this trauma.
TRUTH BOMB: YOU ARE! We are in a global pandemic, this is societal trauma.
Playful Wisdom Parenting Launching! As school districts around Washington State are deciding how the coming year will unfold, parents are facing the reality that, for now at least, remote learning may be here to stay. It’s one more stressor on families already stretched to their limits by COVID-19, the economic shutdown and working from home – if they still have jobs.
Therapist Cary Hamilton knows the experience firsthand. As the owner of Olympia Therapy, not only is she a working parent herself, she works with dozens of children, teens and families throughout the Puget Sound region and hears their accounts of the mental and emotional toll the pandemic is taking. Supporting those families is the purpose behind her new Playful Wisdom Parenting program, which launched August 2020.- READ MORE! on @ThurstonTalk
COVID19 RESPONSE FOR FALL
With school districts making the decision to remain online for the fall, we too will be remaining online for the foreseeable future per our County Dept. of Health's recommendation.
Remember engagement in Telehealth services is for your Mental Health. Being consistent and following your providers recommendations is key for your progress in treatment. With the new school schedules if you feel this will impact your appointments please speak to your provider about scheduling NOW.
Therapy only works when you do the work!
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community. If you are waiting for in-person sessions, it is my recommendation that you initiate Telehealth services NOW. Get on our waitlist so we can serve you as soon as there is availability.
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
Helpful Reads & Links
The correlation of Mood, Sleep & Screen Time
Recent article of Playful Wisdom on Thurston Talk
Brené on the Courage to Not Know, Curiosity, and Leaning in to the Unknown Brenè Brown
August 12
COVID19 RESPONSE FOR FALL
With school districts making the decision to remain online for the fall, we too will be
remaining online for the foreseeable future per our County Dept. of Health's recommendation.
Remember engagement in Telehealth services is for your Mental Health. Being consistent and following your providers recommendations is key for your progress in treatment. With the new school schedules if you feel this will impact your appointments please speak to your provider about scheduling NOW. Therapy only works when you do the work!
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community. If you are waiting for in-person sessions, it is my recommendation that you initiate Telehealth services NOW. Get on our waitlist so we can serve you as soon as there is availability.
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
Playful Wisdom Parenting Launching! As school districts around Washington State are deciding how the coming year will unfold, parents are facing the reality that, for now at least, remote learning may be here to stay. It’s one more stressor on families already stretched to their limits by COVID-19, the economic shutdown and working from home – if they still have jobs.
Therapist Cary Hamilton knows the experience firsthand. As the owner of Olympia Therapy, not only is she a working parent herself, she works with dozens of children, teens and families throughout the Puget Sound region and hears their accounts of the mental and emotional toll the pandemic is taking. Supporting those families is the purpose behind her new Playful Wisdom Parenting program, which launched August 2020.- READ MORE! on @ThurstonTalk
Join us in Week 6!
The Summer of Connection program assists parents & caregivers in remembering to
Play, Connect & Empower
themselves over the summer!
Each week receive a short video message on a timely topic to learn, practice, & implement at home to keep the summer days positive relational focused, & Joy filled.
Sign up to receive your
Summer of Connection
in your inbox this week!
-Cary
Play Therapy Heals in the Language of Children
The natural language of the child is play
Children frequently are not able to articulate their stress, worries, or challenges verbally. A human’s brain is not completed growing till ~25. This means we need to be realistic about how our children communicate including knowing the stage of their brain development.
Play to child is like water to a plant- necessary and harmful if they don’t get enough.
Play allows for expression and learning to happen in the lower more developed parts of the brain while engaging the higher level cortex (cognitive part which is still developing). Play integrates the brain as it grows.
Play is the way!
When a child plays, the toys they use are their words, the play is the story.
The story that is being worked out, processed, and incorporated into their developing brains and psyche.
Helpful Reads & Links
How Trauma Effects A Child's Academics.
Kids not listening?
Here is Summer of Connection Week 1! Sign up if you want the next one.
Video about Children's Anxiety
Brené on Comparative Suffering, the 50/50 Myth, and Settling the Ball Brenè Brown
August 4
COVID19 RESPONSE FOR FALL
With school districts making the decision to remain online for the fall, we too will be remaining online for the foreseeable future per our County Dept. of Health's recommendation.
Remember engagement in Telehealth services is for your Mental Health. Being consistent and following your providers recommendations is key for your progress in treatment. With the new school schedules if you feel this will impact your appointments please speak to your provider about scheduling NOW. We know Telehealth is awkward at times, and we are seeing great results in those maintaining consistent services & positive treatment outcomes.
Therapy only works when you do the work!
There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community. If you are waiting for in-person sessions, it is my recommendation that you initiate Telehealth services NOW. Get on our waitlist so we can serve you as soon as there is availability.
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
Join us in Week 5! The Summer of Connection
program assists parents & caregivers in remembering to Play, Connect & Empower themselves over the summer!
Each week receive a short video message on a timely topic to learn, practice, & implement at home to keep the summer days positive relational focused, & Joy filled.
Sign up to receive your Summer of Connection in your inbox this week!
-Cary
Gratitude really does work, here's how.
We are in the middle of a world-wide pandemic.Life is stressful to say the least. It’s uncertain, unstable, and unpredictable. And while there are varying levels of stress that families are feeling depending on their circumstances, most everyone is feeling some type of stress right now. So the question is, what do we do about it?
The answer is Practice Gratitude.
Dr. Brené Brown states "practicing gratitude is how we acknowledge that there's enough & that we're enough." In times of stress, it’s important to focus on what you can control. While many of the events that are taking place right now are things that we do not have control over, we can control our homes, what our family and children are exposed to, and how we respond to current events, mandates, news, and whatever else life throws our way.
“I don’t have to chase extraordinary moments to find happiness—it’s right in front of me if I’m paying attention and practicing gratitude.” - Brené Brown
Helpful Reads & Links
Playing really has science behind it.
Research on resilience from Covid19
Distance learning is not failing your kids.
Here is Summer of Connection Week 1! Sign up if you want the next one.
Empathy vs Sympathy- what we get wrong Brenè Brown
July 22
Join us in Week 3!
program assists parents & caregivers
in remembering to Play, Connect &
Empower themselves over the summer!
Each week receive a short video message
on a timely topic to learn, practice, &
implement at home to keep the summer
days positive, relational focused, & Joy-filled.
Sign up to receive your
Summer of Connection
in your inbox this week!
-Cary
COVID19 RESPONSE
I have made the decision that the Clinic will remain on Telehealth due to increasednumbers of COVID19 cases being on the rise per our County Dept. of Health. Consistency and predictability are very important right now, attending Telehealth demonstrates commitment to services and treatment. If you are waiting for in-person sessions, it is my recommendation that you initiate Telehealth services NOW, as those on Telehealth will be the first to have in-office sessions. There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community.
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at
info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling &
communication, as well as questions about billing.
Emotional hijacking of our Behaviors: Feeling
like Eeyore these days? We ALL are.
Children’s mental health matters. During this time you may be seeing changes in behaviors and attitudes that are “not your child,” You may be wondering what happened and what to do? Children experience life with their whole body as they learn to integrate their life experiences into learning and memories. As we have now settled into a semi routine during this pandemic, children and adults are still experiencing daily high stressors and small traumas. This over time impacts both parent and child mental health functioning. It is important to know what mental health looks like in children because it is portrayed behaviorally, not verbally like adults would. The behaviors that arise may be not only concerning to you, they may also elicit anger and worry from you, which escalates your reactivity towards your child. Your desire to want to control is high, resulting in a cycle of screaming, crying, meltdown, timeouts, and blowups for everyone involved.
Helpful Reads & Links
Power of Nature Play!
Have you been Dooms-scrolling?
Why does Play Therapy work from a new article in the NYT.
Here is Summer of Connection Week 1! Sign up if you want the next one.
Video to watch on what Empathy really is with Brenè Brown
July 14
Join us in Week 2!
Summer of Connection program assists
parents & caregivers in remembering to
Play, Connect & Empower themselves over the summer!
Each week receive a short video message
on a timely topic to learn, practice, &
implement at home to keep the summer
days positive relational focused, & Joy filled.
Sign up to receive your
Summer of Connection
in your inbox this week!
-Cary
COVID19 RESPONSE
I have made the decision that the Clinic
will remain on Telehealth due to the
recent holiday and increased activities
that are keeping our community numbers
of COVID19 on the rise per our County Dept.
of Health. Consistency and predictability are very important right now, attending Telehealth demonstrate commitment to services and treatment. If you are waiting for in-person sessions, it is my recommendation that you initiate Telehealth services NOW, as those onTelehealth will be the first to have in-office sessions. There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community. Please note, when youdo return to office, you will have to sign a new consent acknowledging current risk factors.
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at
info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling &
communication, as well as questions about billing.
The Foundational Four: Sensory Secrets and the Senses You Didn't Know You Had.
Know the Foundational Senses:
How to recognize & regulate these
four senses with activities.
We thought it was important to inform others that we have EIGHT senses, not five, and 3 are ones you likely have never heard about! Many of us are taught the FIVE senses in school: Seeing,
Hearing, Smell, Taste, and Touch. What we are missing are the Foundational senses of: Vestibular, Proprioceptive, and Interoceptive. These THREE are of particular import as they help our bodies know we are safe and secure in out internal and external states of just being. For every sense, we can be under or over responsive to any of our 8 senses, and when we are, that often causes challenges to how we interact with the world around us. For example, we may avoid certain activities or be thrill-seeking in others!
Let’s break down our Foundational FOUR.
Helpful Reads & Links
Parenting an SPD child.
Pandemic work stressors and parenting.
Why does Play Therapy work?
A sneak peek at Summer of Connection Week 1!
Sign up if you want the next one.
Failure is a part of the ride! Brenè Brown
July 8
Starting This Week!
program assists parents & caregivers in remembering to
Play, Connect & Empower
themselves over the summer!
Each week receive a short video message on a timely topic to learn, practice, & implement at home to keep the summer days positive relational focused, & Joy filled.
Sign up to receive your
Summer of Connection
in your inbox starting
July 6th for 10 weeks!
COVID19 RESPONSE
I have made the decision that the Clinic will remain on Telehealth due to the recent holiday and increased activities that are keeping our community numbers of COVID19 on the rise per our County Dept. of Health.
Consistency and predictability are very important right now, attending Telehealth demonstrates commitment to services and treatment. If you are waiting for in-person sessions, it is my recommendation that you initiate Telehealth services NOW, as those on Telehealth will be the first to have in-office sessions. There is a high demand for services at this time and we are striving to meet the needs of the community. Please note, when you do return to office, you will have to sign a new consent acknowledging current risk factors.
We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
Why Deep Breathing Can Be Helpful for Anxiety—According to Science.
Parents direct their children to do it. Teachers teach it in their classrooms. Therapists teach it during sessions and help you learn ways to incorporate it into your life. Chances are, someone has suggested deep breathing as a path towards relaxation at some point in your life. But why? As it turns out, there are lots of good reasons to employ deep breathing as a calming tool, according to science. One of the major reasons that deep breathing can be so effective is due to its effect on the autonomic nervous system. What exactly is that? Let’s discuss. Read the post here!
Helpful Reads & Links
Dad's its important to PLAY!
Longterm effects of COVID19 on Children
Thoughts on back to school.
A sneak peak at Summer of Connection Week 1! Sign up if you want the next one.
Have you seen the TED Talk on Vulnerability? Brenè Brown
June 23
program assists parents & caregivers in remembering to
Play, Connect & Empower
themselves over the summer!
Each week receive a short video message on a timely topic to learn, practice, & implement at home to keep the summer days positive relational focused, & Joy filled.
Sign up to receive your
Summer of Connection
in your inbox starting
July 6th!
Olympia Therapy & COVID19
We are getting questions about when we will have in office sessions. I'm making the decision to remain on Telehealth due to the recent holiday, protesting, and increased activities that are keeping our community numbers of COVID19 on the rise. It is not therapeutic to open up the office to then shut it down a month later. Consistency and predictability are very important right now. So we are going to move slowly. When you return to office you will have to sign a new consent acknowledging current risk factors. We ask you to please EMAIL our office at info@olympiatherapy.com for scheduling & communication, as well as questions about billing.
When they all look alike: ADHD, Anxiety, & SPD
As the parent of a complicated child you strive to understand the different labels your child is given and how professionals know the difference between those labels. It is a challenging task particularly when many professionals struggle to understand themselves, passing the confusion on to parents. You can hear from one professional, "oh it’s definitely ADHD, let's medicate," another says "he is just anxious, go to therapy," and yet another says "I'm not sure what we are looking at." It is beyond frustrating. As a professional and a parent, I can relate. With this article I’m hoping to provide some information that will help us to focus on the right path. Read the post here!
Helpful Reads & Links
Looking at the risk of LGBT+ Children & Teens in the community.
Difficult conversations about racism.
Is COVID19 PTSD real?
To read Playful Wisdom Parentingannouncement.
Some wise words from Brenè Brown The Courage to Not Know.
June 17
Have you forgotten to PLAY!
Have you forgotten the power of play in relationships? I know as a parent when I am stressed out, I forget how valuable and uplifting playful interactions with the kids and adults in my life can be. We are all struggling from decision making fatigue and routines of boredom. This tends to lead us to aggravation and irritability. We do not have to remain on this path. We can learn to Play more! Our cortical levels are high when stressed. Cortisol is the stress hormone that in moderation is helpful, however with too much cortisol we increasingly will struggle with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and anger/irritable outbursts. The one thing that can combat cortisol directly is “joy juice.” The "joy juice" cocktail of neurotransmitters and hormones are released when we engage in new activities, play and connect with others. This is where that shift in energy can help us all. Look for ways to increase novelty into your daily routine, for example: eat with different utensils like chopsticks, put your clothes on in the opposite order, brush your teeth with the opposite hand, look for images in the clouds for 2 min, look for creatures in nature, and go a different route then you normally do. These sound simple, give them a try and see if you don’t see the humor come out in doing something different. A good sign joy juice is present is laughter! A good way to counter stress and boredom in our current circumstances is to interact with each other differently, everyone is again stuck in routines and not interacting in ways to lift each other up! Have a nerf gun battle, paper ball battle, play hide and